Legal Secretary: Career Diploma Summary

As a legal secretary you will play a vital role in the workings of a law firm or private legal practice. This article describes some of the qualifications you will derive from a legal secretarial program.

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What is a Legal Secretary Diploma Program?

A good legal secretarial diploma program will train you to perform highly specialized work requiring detailed knowledge of legal terminology and various procedures pertaining to the practice of law. As a legal secretary, you will be called upon to prepare correspondence and legal papers such as subpoenas, court motions, witness summonses, client response and complaints, and other necessary procedural components, under the supervision of the attorney or paralegal you work for. You may be needed to review legal journals in search of pertinent articles, or assist with legal research, fact checking, or quote verification. Most diploma programs will cover the various aspects and routines common to law offices.

Skills Acquired

A diploma program to become a legal secretary will provide you with the necessary skills to enter the job market with a competitive edge, and be able to step into your new role as seamlessly as possible. You will learn the language of the law office, and become versed in the various modes of expression common to legal communications and correspondence. You will learn techniques for proofreading and editing copy such as transcriptions, client statements, and other relevant paperwork. Most offices are fully automated and rely heavily on computers for record keeping, accounting, and word processing. A good legal secretarial diploma program will prepare you for the use of specialized software and various forms of computer technology, including advanced techniques for using the Internet. You will gain proficiency with databases, spreadsheets, presentation software, telephone and fax hardware, information management, arranging travel and accommodations, and more. Testing and certification for proficiency in entry-level law office skills can enhance your qualifications. This testing is available through organizations such as the National Association of Legal Secretaries, and Legal Secretaries International.

Coursework in a Legal Secretary Diploma Program May Include:

Law Office Management

Business English

Office Software

Corporate Records

Interview Documentation

Shorthand

Litigation Basics

Wills & Estates

Career Outlook and Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment growth in the legal services industry should lead to job growth for legal secretaries. While opportunities are always best for experienced secretaries and administrative assistants, people trained to proficiency with modern software, and schooled in legal specific operations and procedures will have a distinct advantage in the job hunt. In 2004, the median annual earnings for legal secretaries were about $36K, with the highest paid earning as much as $56K per year.